So, you signed up for Instant Checkmate. Maybe you were trying to figure out who that mysterious new neighbor is, or you got way too invested in a true-crime documentary and just had to know more. Founded in 2010, the service is a deep dive into public records. But that curiosity can fade, especially when the bill hits. With plans ranging from $28.09 to $35.12, the charges add up. By cancelling an unused subscription, you could save up to $421 a year. This guide covers how to cancel on your desktop or over the phone. Let's get this done.
How to Cancel Instant Checkmate on Desktop or Laptop
The most reliable way to cancel your Instant Checkmate subscription is through their website on a desktop computer. The mobile site can be a little clunky, so this is your best bet.
1 Log In to Your Account
First, head over to the Instant Checkmate website and log in. You'll need the email address and password you used when you first signed up. If you forgot your password, just use the 'Forgot Password' link to reset it.
2 Navigate to Your Account Settings
Once you're logged in, look for your name or an account icon, usually in the top-right corner of the page. Click on it and select 'My Account' or a similar option like 'Account Settings' from the dropdown menu.
3 Find the Subscription Management Area
Inside your account settings, you'll need to find the section that manages your subscription. This is sometimes labeled 'Membership Settings', 'Subscription', or 'Billing'. It can be a bit buried, so take a look around.
4 Initiate the Cancellation
Look for a link or button that says 'Cancel Subscription', 'Stop Membership', or 'Turn Off Automatic Renewal'. They might make you click through a couple of pages asking if you're sure. Stay firm.
5 Confirm Your Cancellation
Follow the final prompts to confirm the cancellation. You should receive a confirmation email shortly after. Don't delete this email. Keep it as proof in case any surprise charges appear later.
How to Cancel Instant Checkmate on iPhone (iOS)
You can't cancel Instant Checkmate through your iPhone's 'Subscriptions' setting. It has to be done directly on their website using a browser.
1 Open Your Web Browser
Instant Checkmate doesn't manage its subscriptions through the Apple App Store. So, you'll need to open Safari or another web browser on your iPhone.
2 Go to the Instant Checkmate Website
Navigate to the official Instant Checkmate website. It's a good idea to request the desktop version of the site if the mobile view feels limited, which can sometimes hide the cancellation options.
3 Log In and Access Your Account
Tap the login button and enter your credentials. Once you're in, find the 'My Account' section. This is often found by tapping a menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the corner.
4 Locate and Cancel Your Subscription
In your account settings, search for the subscription or membership area. Tap the link to cancel your membership and follow all the on-screen instructions until you get a confirmation message.
How to Cancel Instant Checkmate on Android
Canceling on an Android device requires you to use a web browser, as the subscription is not linked to your Google Play account.
1 Use Your Phone's Browser
Like with iPhones, you can't cancel through the Google Play Store. Open Chrome or your preferred browser on your Android device.
2 Navigate to the Instant Checkmate Site
Go to the Instant Checkmate website and log in with your email and password. The mobile site can be tricky, so be patient.
3 Find Your Account Dashboard
After logging in, tap the menu icon to find a link to 'My Account' or 'Account Settings'. This is where your subscription details are located.
4 Follow the Cancellation Steps
Find the option to manage your membership and select 'Cancel Subscription'. You might have to answer a survey or click through a retention offer. Just keep going until you see a final confirmation screen.
Cancel Instant Checkmate by Phone
If you're struggling with the website, you can cancel by calling their customer support team. It's often faster, though you might have to wait on hold.
- Phone Number: (800) 222-8985
- Hours of Operation: Available 24/7, 7 days a week (according to their site).
When you call, have your account information ready, including the email address you used to sign up. State clearly that you want to cancel your subscription and ask for a confirmation number or email.
Before You Cancel: What You Should Know
- No Pro-rated Refunds: Instant Checkmate is very clear in its terms of service that they do not offer refunds if you cancel in the middle of a billing period. You'll have access until your current subscription term ends, but you won't get any money back for unused time.
- Save Your Reports: Once your subscription period ends, you will lose access to any reports you've viewed. If there's any information you need, be sure to save or print it before your access is cut off.
- Pausing is Not an Option: Currently, Instant Checkmate does not offer an option to pause your membership. Your only choice is to keep it active or cancel it.
Having Trouble Cancelling Your Instant Checkmate Subscription?
It can be frustrating when the cancel button seems to be hiding. If you're running into issues, here are a few things to try:
- Use a Desktop Computer: Many users report that the cancellation process is much smoother on a desktop or laptop computer compared to a mobile device.
- Clear Your Browser Cache: Sometimes, old data stored in your browser can cause issues. Try clearing your cache and cookies, or use an incognito/private browsing window to log in and cancel.
- Check for Third-Party Billing: While uncommon for this service, double-check that you weren't billed through a third party like PayPal. If so, you may need to cancel the recurring payment authority there as well.
- Call Them Directly: If the website just isn't working, your best bet is to call their support line at (800) 222-8985. They can process the cancellation for you over the phone.
Subscription Plans and Pricing (2025)
| Plan Name | Price per Month | Billing Cycle | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Month Pass | $35.12 | Billed monthly | Unlimited background reports, location history, and people searches. Renews automatically. |
| 3-Month Pass | $28.09 | Billed as $84.28 every 3 months | Same features as the 1-Month Pass but at a discounted monthly rate. |
| 6-Month Pass | $23.28 | Billed as $139.68 every 6 months | The best value plan with all the same features. Good for long-term use. |
Note: Prices are based on the latest available information and are subject to change. Additional taxes may apply.
How Pine AI Can Help You Cancel Your Instant Checkmate Subscription
Tired of navigating confusing menus and waiting on hold? Let Pine AI handle it. We can cancel your Instant Checkmate subscription for you, quickly and securely. Just connect your account, and we'll take care of the rest, saving you time and preventing unwanted charges. It's that simple.
Frequently Asked Questions about Instant Checkmate
Can I unsubscribe from Instant Checkmate anytime?
Can I get a refund from Instant Checkmate if I forgot to cancel?
How do I know my Instant Checkmate subscription is cancelled?
How long does it take for Instant Checkmate to cancel?
What else should I know before I cancel my Instant Checkmate subscription?
How do I raise a complaint to Instant Checkmate?
How does Pine AI work with Instant Checkmate to cancel my subscription?
David Jon-Goldstein
Senior Finance and Business Writer
David Jon-Goldstein leads on all topics finance and business content at Pine AI. Previously a Senior Finance Analyst, with over 15 years of experience in finance, and as a former CFA Charterholder, David specializes in breaking down complex investment vehicles, corporate spending, and SaaS financial models. His analysis, featured in leading finance papers, he has helped individuals and businesses navigate financial agreements and optimize their spending for maximum growth.
